Campgrounds: what does the law say?
In France, campgrounds are subject to strict regulations. They must be authorised by the local council and comply with the Town Planning Code, particularly in terms of layout, hygiene, safety and the environment.
Official classification
Campgrounds can be classified from 1 to 5 stars, or declared a natural area. This classification, issued by Atout France, is based on nearly 200 criteria (size, sanitary facilities, services, reception, etc.) and must be renewed every 5 years.
🧾Please note: No more than 30% of a site may be occupied by light accommodation (mobile homes, lodge tents, etc.) – Article R.111-37 of the Town Planning Code.
What are a campsite's obligations towards its customers?
Campsite managers are required to guarantee services in accordance with their contractual commitments.
Mandatory services and signage
- Prices including VAT displayed at the entrance and at reception (decree of 27 March 1987),
- Internal rules available on request,
- Numbered map of the campground,
- Distinction between "leisure" pitches (long-term occupancy) and "tourism" pitches (short stays),
- Description of facilities (Article D.331-1-1 of the Tourism Code),
- Compliance with maximum capacity.
📄 Invoice required for each customer, regardless of the booking method.
Safety standards: a priority
Regulations require campsites to ensure the safety of people and property:
- Fire extinguishers, fire hydrants and water points must be available.
- Clear access routes for emergency services,
- Display of instructions and evacuation plans,
- Staff trained in risk management, particularly in the event of a fire.
🚫 During periods of drought or fire risk, open-flame barbecues may be prohibited by prefectural order, particularly in the south-east.
What are the rules to follow on a campsite?
Campers have rights, but also responsibilities. The golden rule: follow the rules and regulations, which are displayed and available on site.
Behaviour and use of the premises
- Respect the quiet hours (often 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.),
- Maintenance of accommodation,
- Use of communal facilities in accordance with the instructions.
🔔 In the event of repeated offences (noise, damage, etc.), the manager may exclude a camper, without refund, after hearing their explanation.
Specific obligations depending on status
"Passing through" campers
- Must leave the premises clean.
- Cleaning fee possible (between £50 and £100).
Private rentals
- Check whether the campsite allows this type of accommodation.
- The manager may refuse entry if the subletting is not regulated.
Mobile home owners
- Must sign a location contract, valid for a maximum of 2 years,
- Contract detailing: usage rights, opening hours, fees (water, electricity, etc.),
- Entrance fee (€1,500 to €8,000) is legal if specified in the contract.
⚖️ Mobile homes < 40 m² are exempt from council tax and property tax, but are subject to tourist tax.
Natural areas, PRLs, municipal campsites: what are the differences?
- Municipal campsites: open all year round depending on the municipality, they welcome all campers (tents, caravans, motorhomes) and are subject to tourist tax.
- PRL (Parc Résidentiel de Loisirs): accessible all year round, but reserved for mobile homes and light leisure accommodation. Tents are not allowed.
- Natural area: closer to nature, it is only open six months a year, with a maximum of 30 pitches on one hectare. Out of season, the site must be restored to its natural state.
Motorhomes: what are the rules?
Motorhomes have a special status. They can park freely, but with specific rules:
- Parking is permitted in public car parks, without any external equipment (awnings, chocks, tables, etc.)
- Obligation to use service areas for emptying and filling (5,700 in France),
- Camping is tolerated for one night in many areas, unless prohibited by local regulations.
🚫 Wild camping is prohibited in:
- Protected natural areas (parks, classified forests, etc.),
- Within 500 metres of a historic monument,
- On private campgrounds without permission.
🧯 Fines of up to €1,500 for offences involving fires, pollution or damage to the environment.
In the event of a dispute: what should you do?
- Written complaint to the campsite.
- If no solution is found, refer the matter to the Tourism and Travel Mediator (MTV).
- Last resort: contact the DDPP (Departmental Directorate for Population Protection) or a consumer association.
In summary
Camping in France means enjoying a regulated, safe and diverse range of options, from traditional campsites to motorhome areas and mobile homes. But to ensure a peaceful stay, everyone – professionals and holidaymakers alike – must respect the rules, know their rights and play as part of a team. Freedom under a tent, yes – but within the rules!